I'll feel it bog down a little when I encounter a thick hydrilla area just under the surface, but usually if I just feather the drive until I'm clear, there's never an issue. I can't remember ever removing the drive to remove hydrilla or any weeds from it.

If I was planning to fish in an area with a huge amount of growth to navigate through...I'd probably latch the drive with the fins against the hull and paddle/pole the area.

I have had major problems in weeds fishing in the kelp on the west coast!You will have to either fish the edge or get a nice spring start towards the kelp, pull the drive, MAKE SURE TO PULL THE RUDDER!!!, and then grab your paddle and have fun!but make sure to pull your rudder or else you are going to stretch the cord in heavy weeds or kelp and you will have to retie the cord after every adventure.